St. Charles Council Extends Emergency, Reviews Bike and Pedestrian Safety

Introduction

The St. Charles City Council meeting on July 7, 2021, covered key decisions related to liquor licensing, cultural funding, and public safety while extending the city’s COVID-19 state of emergency. The council also addressed a citizen’s detailed concerns about pedestrian and bicycle safety, sparking discussions about city planning and accessibility.

Omnibus Vote and COVID-19 Emergency Extension

The meeting opened with the approval of an omnibus vote, with one agenda item (C1) removed for separate consideration. Shortly after, the council approved an ordinance extending the COVID-19 state of emergency until the next council meeting, ensuring continued flexibility in city operations.

Appointments to City Commissions and Committees

Two key appointments were confirmed:

• Top Bankcrossed was appointed to the Liquor Control Commission, filling a vacancy left by former Alderman Stellato.

• Alderman Paul Lencioni was appointed as Vice Chair of the Planning and Development Committee, also succeeding Stellato.

Liquor License Approvals

The council approved:

• A Class F2 liquor license for Magnolia Soap and Bath Company.

• A Class E1 temporary liquor license for the Hops for Hope 5K event scheduled for October 2, 2021.Both approvals included recusals by Aldermen with potential conflicts of interest.

Funding Allocations and Fox Valley Marathon Approval

The Visitors Cultural Commission funding allocation for FY2021-2022 was approved, along with funding agreements for recipient organizations.The council also approved street and parking lot closures, plus amplification equipment use for the Fox Valley Marathon. An Alderman recused themselves due to business ties to the event.

Amendments to Previous Meeting Minutes

At Alderman Warbaugh’s request, June 14th meeting minutes were amended to reflect precise wording changes and correct names. This step underscores the council’s commitment to accurate public records.

Recognition of Police Department’s Service

The council took a moment to thank the Police Department for their extensive work on a recent “Trilogy incident.” The Mayor praised officers’ dedication and tireless service to the community.

Citizen Concerns: Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety

A detailed email from Samuel Parker, a resident with a visual disability, highlighted multiple safety concerns:

• Lack of bike lanes, leading to cyclists riding on sidewalks.

• Absence of audible crossing signals at major intersections, including Tyler, Kirk, and Randall Roads along Route 64.

• Missing crosswalk signals and safe access points along Dean Street.

• Insufficient pedestrian detours and markings during construction.

Council members acknowledged Parker’s points, emphasizing that while some issues fall under other jurisdictions, the concerns would be reviewed by staff and potentially integrated into a larger “walkability and bikeability” city plan.

Timeline of Key Events

• 0:01 – Meeting called to order, roll call.

• 0:22 – Invocation by Alderman Freedman.

• 1:09 – Omnibus vote approval.

• 1:55 – COVID-19 emergency extension approved.

• 2:27 – Appointment of Top Bankcrossed to Liquor Control Commission.

• 3:08 – Appointment of Alderman Paul Lencioni as Vice Chair.

• 3:41–4:18 – Approval of new liquor licenses.

• 4:53–5:34 – Funding allocation approval and marathon logistics vote.

• 7:18 – Amendment of June 14 meeting minutes.

• 8:59 – Acknowledgment of Police Department’s service.

• 9:56 – Reading of citizen email on pedestrian/bike safety.

• 12:45 – Motion to adjourn.

Conclusion

The July 7, 2021, St. Charles City Council meeting demonstrated a strong focus on community safety and inclusivity. The approval of liquor licenses, cultural funding, and event logistics illustrates ongoing city development, while Samuel Parker’s safety concerns brought much-needed attention to pedestrian and cyclist accessibility. Moving forward, the city’s leadership signaled a commitment to addressing these issues through careful planning and collaborative solutions.

FAQs

What major COVID-19 decision was made at the July 7, 2021 St. Charles Council meeting?

The Council extended the city’s COVID-19 state of emergency until the next meeting, ensuring flexibility in city operations.

Which new appointments were made during the July 7, 2021 Council meeting?

Top Bankcrossed was appointed to the Liquor Control Commission, and Alderman Paul Lencioni was named Vice Chair of the Planning and Development Committee.

What liquor licenses were approved at the July 7, 2021 meeting?

The Council approved a Class F2 license for Magnolia Soap and Bath Company and a temporary E1 license for the Hops for Hope 5K event.

How did the Council address citizen concerns about bike and pedestrian safety?

The Council reviewed Samuel Parker’s email detailing issues like missing bike lanes and crosswalk signals, and committed to integrating solutions into a citywide walkability and bikeability plan.

What cultural and community funding decisions were made at the July 7, 2021 meeting?

The Visitors Cultural Commission funding allocation for FY2021-2022 was approved, along with street closures and amplification approvals for the Fox Valley Marathon.